the goan I network
VASCO
Differences between Cortalim MLA Alina Saldanha and her nephew Goa Ramponkaracho Ekvott (GRE) General Secretary Olencio Simoes have come to the fore yet again, with Simoes claiming that fish vendors were not taken into confidence when the Velsao market complex was constructed.
The issue about the Velsao market complex was highlighted when Velsao residents got upset over lack of fish in Velsao, as some fish vendors preferred to go to Bandaar, a location near Verna junction to sell fish.
"Fish is caught here and fish vendors then move to areas like Bandaar for better sales. The new market complex is not complete and fish vendors don't want to sit in the new complex " complained a local on condition of anonymity.
Justifying their decision, a fisherwoman said they did not get customers if they sat in the new market complex.
"There is also no proper arrangements as the complex is not ready and hence, some vendors proceed to other locations to sell fish," said the fisherwoman.
Supporting the fish vendors, Simoes said many fishermen at Velsao market were forced to sell fish on the road near the panchayat, as the market did not have water, toilet facilities and proper seating arrangements.
"Fisherfolk sit by the roadside as it is more convenient to sell fish there and easy for customers to buy fish on the go."
"The market complex has no proper seating arrangements and no electricity connection. I request the MLA and the government to change the seating arrangements. Local fish vendors should have been taken in confidence before the market complex was built. The market is not in a convenient location and has no drainage," said Simoes.
"This market, which was planned for fish vendors, should have been built as per their requirements and not according to the wishes of the MLA," added Simoes.
"The Cortalim market is also incomplete. The government is spending on projects but they should be built as per the requirements of vendors and not for other considerations," Simoes added.
Vendors not to sell fish on roads: Alina
VASCO: Warning fish vendors to avoid selling fish on roads next to the Velsao-Pale-Issorcim Panchayat office at Velsao, Cortalim MLA Alina Saldanha has bluntly told her nephew to ensure that rules are followed by all fish vendors.
"The site selected for the market complex was not done by us and the location of the market is ideal, prominent and very close to the road," justified Saldanha.
"The market is being renovated at a huge cost and if the fish vendors for their greed are trying to sell fish on the roads, they will not be allowed to do so. The GRE general secretary (Simoes) should ensure this rules are followed by all fish vendors" said Saldanha.
"Everywhere around Goa, even locally grown vegetables are not permitted to be sold by the roadside. There are many road accidents and traffic has increased manifold. The market will be completed in all respects soon and they (fish vendors) will be shifted to the new market complex. I request the GRE to make sure that the law is followed and that, the right action is given priority," Saldanha added.
